Power in Weakness. 2 Corinthians 13. God's Power is Evident Through our Weakness

Read: 2 Corinthians 13

• What do you notice?
• What stands out to you?
• What observations or questions does this passage raise?

Discuss:

Paul’s comment in v.3, “He is not weak in dealing with you, but is powerful among you” makes me wonder if Paul is referencing the incident in the book of Acts, where Ananias and Saphira drop dead [ch.5], Herod is struck down [ch.12], and Elymas the sorcerer is struck blind [ch.13].

• What do you think that “Jesus being powerful among us” refers to?
• Do you think God punishes sin on earth or waits until the judgment?

Paul next encourages the church at Corinth to examine themselves.

• What might ‘failing the test’ look like?
• How would you know that you have ‘passed’?
• What is a helpful way to check yourself in terms of how you are doing in following Jesus?
• What things do you know are weaknesses for you in leading a life of relationship with God, maintaining character, and serving others?
• What might we be able to do to help you in this area?

From v.9 Paul changes his tone and reminds the Corinthians how he prays for them, he wants them to flourish and grow, and he reminds them of God’s grace and presence among them.

• What is your experience of being in conflict with people you care about?
• What helps you to keep wanting the best for people who have hurt you?
• How do we finish hard conversations with blessing (and without it seeming insincere)?
• How can this kind of commitment to relationships and blessing people glorify God?

Pray: that God would continue to work powerfully among us, that we would continue to pass the test and grow in faith, and that we would handle conflict well so that relationships are strengthened and God is glorified.